President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow following a boat accident in Ibaji Local Government Area of Kogi State that claimed at least 26 lives on Tuesday. The tragedy, which occurred along the Niger River, involved a vessel carrying traders from Onugwa community to Ilushi market in Edo State.

Eyewitness Accounts of the Tragedy

Eyewitnesses confirmed to The Bureau News that the boat was overloaded with passengers heading to market when it capsized around 4:30 p.m. James Otoga, a local farmer, said over 20 bodies were recovered with more still missing. “The boat was fully loaded with our people going to market for the October 1st celebration. Only five survivors have surfaced yet,” Otoga told journalists.

Presidential Condolences

In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu described the incident as “shocking and unfortunate.” He urged federal, state, and local emergency responders to intensify efforts to assist victims and survivors. The President also pressed water transport operators to prioritize safety over profit, noting that Nigerians should not die while pursuing legitimate livelihoods.

Kogi State’s Response

Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has directed the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to work with local authorities to provide relief measures for families of the victims. The state’s Commissioner for Information, Kingsley Fanwo, described the incident as “heartbreaking” and confirmed that at least 26 people had died.

“The government of Kogi State stands with the people of Ibaji LGA and will continue to support them through this difficult time,” Fanwo stated, while urging riverine communities to avoid overloading and adopt safety measures like life jackets.

Recurring Maritime Disasters

Boat accidents remain frequent in Nigeria’s riverine areas, particularly during the rainy season. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) attributes most incidents to poor vessel maintenance, overloading, lack of safety gear, and weak enforcement of maritime laws. In June 2023, over 100 people died when a vessel carrying wedding guests capsized near Pategi, Niger State.

Stay with The Bureau News for continuous updates on national emergencies and government responses.